Tartu is an intellectual university town known for its vibrant student population and long running university. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Tartu?
You should plan to spend around $138 (€132) per day on your vacation in Tartu. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $68 (€65) on meals
- $29 (€27) on local transportation
- $98 (€94) on hotels
A one week trip to Tartu for two people costs, on average, $1,937 (€1,848). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$968
€924
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,937
€1,848
-
One Month
Per person
$4,150
€3,960
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,937
€1,848
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,873
€3,696
-
One Month
For a couple
$8,300
€7,920
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Tartu cost?
A one week trip to Tartu usually costs around $968 (€924) for one person and $1,937 (€1,848) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Tartu on average costs around $1,937 (€1,848) for one person and $3,873 (€3,696) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Tartu will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Tartu on average costs around $4,150 (€3,960) for one person and $8,300 (€7,920) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Tartu expensive to visit?
Tartu is a small yet inviting university town that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Tartu can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like taking public transit and exploring on foot.
On average, budget travelers spend $60 (€57) per day, mid-range travelers spend $139 (€132) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $297 (€283) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Tartu.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Tartu is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Santillana or Trogir.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Tartu Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Tartu?
The average Tartu trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Tartu travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Tartu cost?
Tartu on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$21
(€20)
|
$49
(€47)
|
$95
(€91)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$12
(€11)
|
$29
(€27)
|
$61
(€59)
|
|
Food 2
|
$28
(€26)
|
$68
(€65)
|
$159
(€151)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$7
(€7.11)
|
$17
(€16)
|
$33
(€32)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-11
(€3-10)
|
$8-25
(€8-24)
|
$16-47
(€15-45)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Tartu, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $60 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Tartu has plenty of hostels available, like Looming Hostel. Here, you can enjoy low-cost dorm lodging and a vibrant social environment, though amenities might be minimal.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Tourists visiting Tartu generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $139 per person, per day.
In Tartu, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Hotel London by Tartuhotels is a fantastic option for families, and Hotel Antonius is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Tartu here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $297. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the university town means you'll need a more luxurious budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Horse-Drawn Sleigh Adventures - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Tartu
The range of hotel prices in Tartu can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $82, but during peak summer season the average price can reach $153. From $38 for budget hotels to $552 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Tartu for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $98 (€94). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $49 (€47) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Tartu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Tartu include:
- Hotel London by Tartuhotels starting at $79
- Lydia Hotel Tartu starting at $117
- Hotel Antonius starting at $111
- V Spa & Conference Hotel starting at $89
- Art Hotel Pallas by Tartuhotels starting at $75
Tartu has a good public transit system, so it's possible to stay further outside the university town and commute in. This may keep your accommodation prices down, but your transportation costs will go up. It can also be inconvenient if you're short on time.
By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.
Many people like to wander through Tartu, so it's a good idea to book a place in the center. Keep in mind that this could come with an increased cost.
The university town's captivating old town is a key attraction for visitors. Hotels in this area may be expensive, but they often have a lot of charm and provide easy access to everything.
Transportation Budget in Tartu
Tartu has a decent public transportation system that reaches several top attractions. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town. For an affordable and quick way to get around, public transit works well, depending on your location. Taxis and rideshares are also an option if needed.
Anyone who enjoys a good walk to discover their surroundings will love it here. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $29 (€27) per person, per day, on local transportation in Tartu. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Tartu is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$29
€27
When you're driving, make sure that your hotel has convenient parking, and confirm how much you'll need to pay for it.
How much does it cost to go to Tartu? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Tartu will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Tartu
Food options are limited and not of the best quality in Tartu. It's better not to spend too much money trying to eat out because there are other activities that are more worth your time. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Tartu can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Tartu is $68 (€65) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$68
€65
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Tartu is around $68 (€65) per person, with previous travelers spending from $28 to $159. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Tartu are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $20
- Lunch: $10 to $27
- Dinner: $20 to $47
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
As a university town, there are many budget food options available to visitors. Near the center of town you can find many cheap restaurants that cater to students and offer anything from pizza to Indian food. Most budget eateries cater to students and the food can vary in quality, but the price is good and the diversity of options is excellent. Restaurants are diverse but pizza, pubs, and Asian options are probably the most prevalent.
In general, food in the area is much cheaper than you would find elsewhere in Europe. There are a variety of local restaurants that serve more traditional dishes at a reasonable price, and unless you're on a very tight budget, it's worth trying some local food while you're in town.
There are plenty of cafes, pubs, and clubs around town as well. Drinks are cheap and many of the places are popular with students, so you can expect a young and energetic atmosphere. This is a great way to experience the atmosphere and culture of Tartu.
There is also no shortage of hostels in the area so you should have no problems finding affordable accommodation. Many hostels are actually housed in dorms of the university so you get an interesting feel for the city and its student life.
Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.
Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.
Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.
Typical prices for food in Tartu are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Tartu. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
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Danishes
€0.76
-
Lunch for Two
€4.93
-
Ice Cream
€1.27
-
Cookies
€0.51
-
Coffee & Cake
€3.47
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Tartu
It's no wonder that so many visitors make their way to Tartu for its nightlife, historical sights, budget-friendly accommodations, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Tartu typically cost an average of $17 (€16) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$17
€16
There are some nice buildings around Tartu, particularly in the old town area. Some interesting churches in town include St. John's Church, St. Paul's Church, and St. Alexander`s Orthodox Church among others. Make sure you swing by the Town Hall Square where you'll see the famous statue of two students kissing. The KGB Museum is a moving and well done museum that is definitely worth a visit if you have any interest in the history of the area. There's also a nice botanical garden that is worth a visit if only so you can enjoy some people watching.
There's a nice trail that runs alongside the river making for an enjoyable walk. On a nice day you'll find people fishing here, or just soaking up some of the cherished sunlight.
Popular festivals in town include Hanseatic Days, which is held during late July. This is a medieval festival that has many fairs, festivities, exhibitions, concerts, dances, shopping booths, and more. It is generally a free event. The Stencibility Street Art Festival is also popular and is held every year at the end of April.
Historical Sights:
The old town, steeped in history, draws in a wide array of visitors. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.
A nice way to explore destinations in Tartu is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Around Viljandi bike tour for $27 details
- Charming Viljandi Walking Tour for Couples for $139 details
- Private Horse-Drawn Sleigh Adventures for $192 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Tartu. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
-
Art Museum ticket
€0.95
-
Movie Ticket
€3.47
Nightlife Budget in Tartu
In Tartu, the nightlife is always buzzing with activity, and visitors delight in spending their nights at the local bars, clubs, and parties. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $16 (€16) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Tartu per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$16
€16
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Enjoy the nightlife, but stay cautious, especially if you're drinking. Thieves or criminals may target you, so stay close to trusted friends and avoid wandering off alone.
Traveling in Tartu
Tartu is a university town that is also the second largest city in Estonia. It has a population of about 100,000 and dates back to 1030, making it the oldest city in the country. The Emajogi River passes through town and it has a lovely old town that's pleasant to explore. The city is a great place to see day to day life in Estonia. It is a very real town with people going about their daily lives. If you find yourself here when the weather is nice, you'll be greeted by crowds of happy locals out enjoying the weather. They make full use of the warm, sunny weather with festivals, events, and concerts during the summer. This is easily the most fun and eventful time to visit the city.
The climate in Tartu is temperate humid continental. It is more mild than you might expect at the high latitude, but winters are still quite cold. It's proximity to the Baltic Sea keeps the temperatures warmer and there are occasionally hot days during the summer, although it is usually cool or pleasantly warm.
Neighborhoods & Around
Tartu can be divided into seventeen distinct neighborhoods. Annelinn is the largest and it is located on the left bank of the river. It houses over a quarter of the city's population and is predominantly Soviet style apartment buildings. The Old Town is where you will likely spend most of your time as a tourist. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of attractions and the most interesting architecture.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.